South Spit Cooperative Management Area

The South Spit is a 4.5-mile expanse of wave sculped beaches, windswept dunes, and bayshore marshes. A mix of several habitat types attracts a diversity of birds including migrant waterfowl, snowy plover and sanderlings, cormorants, pelicans, and black turnstones to name a few.

Location is a 20 minute scenic drive from either Eureka or Fortuna in Humboldt County. The area is jointly managed by the BLM, California Department of Fish and Game, and the County of Humboldt. Many additional cooperators, including the Wiyot Tribe, California Coastal Conservancy, and the U.S. Fsh and Wildlife Service, have worked together to provide improvements and open the area to public access.

Recreational Opportunities

Pedestrian beach access is a short stroll from several parking areas along South Jetty Road.

Waveslope vehicle access is allowed. The speed limit is 15 mph and vehicles are required to stay on the wet sand (below high tide).

Picnic tables, parking, cooking grills, and restroom facilities are located at the south and north ends of the area.

Horses are allowed on the ocean side of South Jetty Road.

Dog walking is allowed with the requirement that dogs must be leashed on the west side of South Jetty Road during the snowy plover nesting season (March 1 – Sept. 15).

The South Jetty is a popular fishing spot for bottom fish, salmon, and perch. Note that the jetty is subject to large, unpredictable, and dangerous waves so visitors should use extreme caution while in the vicinity of the entrance to Humboldt Bay.

Seasons Accessible

The area is open all year. The area is open from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.

Fees: None

ADA Accessibility Notes
The developed sites at the north and south ends of the area are ADA mobility accessible.

Pet Friendly Notes
Dogs may be off-leash year round on the east side of South Jetty Road and from Sept. 16 to March 1 on the west side of the road.